Australian police interview Cardinal Pell about abuse charges

October 26, 2016

Australian police have interviewed Cardinal George Pell in Rome, questioning him about sex-abuse charges.

The Australian cardinal, who now lives in Rome and serves as Secretariat for the Economy, “voluntarily participated in an interview regarding allegations of sexual assault,” police reported. “As a result, further investigations are continuing.”

Three police officials traveled to Rome to take part in the interview. Police talked with the cardinal after making a preliminary investigation into charges brought by two men who said that the future cardinal had improperly touched them more than thirty years ago.

Cardinal Pell has repeatedly and emphatically denied any impropriety. His office said that he “repeats his previous rejection of all and every allegation of sexual abuse and will continue to cooperate with Victoria police until the investigation is finalized.”

Pope Francis has cautioned reporters against “a media verdict” in the case, and said that he will await the outcome of the Australian police inquiry.

 

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Further information:

• Cardinal Pell denies abuse allegations as police question him in Rome (AP)
• Paedophilia: Australian police interrogates Cardinal Pell in the Vatican (Vatican Insider)
• Pope aide interviewed by Australian police over sex abuse claims (AFP)
• Australian police near decision on questioning Cardinal Pell about abuse claims (CWN, 8/17)